For many of us, it seems like every single time we go on vacation, we lug the entire closet with us. Tired of overpacking? No worries! There are tons of simple tips, tricks, and hacks for traveling and packing light!
Think About Getting A New Bag
Want to force yourself to pack lighter? Well, many experienced travelers have the perfect way to start: throw out (or preferably donate) those massive suitcases and purchase a new, smaller bag. That way, you can only pack the essentials! At the end of the day, you really only need two baggage options: a small suitcase and a 40-liter backpack as a carry-on option. Plus, as you continue to force yourself to pack light, you will become better and better at it!
“Never buy a backpack/suitcase that is bigger than carry-on size. If your travel pack/suitcase is small, there is no possible way to overpack,” said Adam Seper of BootsnAll Travel Network, a company that provides do-it-yourself services for those who love traveling.
Thoughtful Packing
Want an easy way to begin packing light? Before your next vacation, lay out everything you want to take with you. Then, eliminate half the items. Start with the truly unessential stuff: extra toothbrushes, that shirt you’ve never worn, and so on. Then, continue until you only have the essentials! Of course, remember, there are stores everywhere around the world. If you desperately need something while abroad, its likely only minutes away.
While traveling, you might want a few different types of outfits, one more the cold mornings, another for a night out, you get the idea. An easy way to pack light and still rock multiple outfits is packing many items you can mix and match. Have a sweatshirt that can keep you both warm and stylish? Bring that instead of two separate pieces of clothing!
Picking Smart Locations
Of course, we’re not suggesting you change your destination to the locations you’ll need the least clothes. However, when picking lodging, look into the laundry situation. If you stay at an Airbnb or hotel with a laundry machine, you can pack a lot fewer clothes! Meanwhile, if you don’t mine, hand-washing in a sink or tub can also work incredibly well. Finally, even if your lodging does not have laundry machines, talk to the host or hotel staff. More likely than not, they can point you towards the nearest laundromat.
Packing Light 101: Share!
Traveling with a friend or a significant other? Ring them up and ask what they’ll bring and then discuss what you two can share. Sharing items like shampoo, toothpaste, soap, and even some pieces of clothing (after washing them, of course) can save a ton of space in your new, smaller suitcase.
At the end of the day, enjoy your trip and don’t worry too much about packing!
Sources: IndieTraveler, Vacation101.